Voice Over Internet Protocols (VoIP) is one way threat actors attempt to trick unsuspecting consumers into sharing their confidential information, such as usernames, passwords, bank account information, and the like. These actors frequently use "ID Spoofing" as vehicles in their attack campaigns.
ID Spoofing is when a caller deliberately falsifies the information transmitted to a caller ID display to disguise their identity. Scammers often use "neighbor spoofing" so it appears that an incoming call is coming from a local number or spoof a number from a company or a government agency that the victim probably knows and trusts. Then they use scam scripts to try to steal money or valuable personal information that can be used in fraudulent activity.
Smishing is a similar form of social engineering fraud, but it exploits SMS, or text, messages rather than VoIP. In a smishing scheme, the scammer purports to be a known entity and texts a link to such things as webpages, email addresses, or phone numbers that, when clicked, automatically open a browser window or email message or dial a number. This integration of email, voice, text message, and web browser functionality increases the likelihood that users will fall victim to engineered malicious activity.
Red Flags
- Demands for payment
- Program enrollment
- Winning a prize
- Account verification
- Order/shipping confirmation
- Tech support
Tips to Help You Remain on Guard
- Be suspicious of unsolicited phone calls, visits, or email messages from individuals asking about employees or other internal information. If an unknown individual claims to be from a legitimate organization, try to verify his or her identity directly with the company.
- Do not provide personal information or information about your organization, including its structure or networks, unless you are certain of a person's authority to have the information.
- Do not reveal personal or financial information in a text or email, and do not respond to email solicitations for this information. This includes following links sent in a text or email.
- Don't send sensitive information over the internet without checking a website's security.
- Pay attention to the Uniform Resource Locator (URL) of a website. Look for URLs that begin with "https" ― an indication that sites are secure ― rather than "http."
Resources
If You're a Victim? Immediately change any passwords you might have revealed. Consider reporting the attack to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), the police, and file a report with the Federal Trade Commission.
Getting Help. If you identify suspicious activity in your work environment, contact your IT Department immediately.
The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views of Citizens State Bank and its affiliates, and Citizens State Bank is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any information contained in this article or items hyperlinked within. This is for informational purposes and is no way intended to provide legal advice.